Australian NGOs to Review Sexual Misconduct Safeguards

World Vision Australia welcomes the  independent review aimed at improving the Australian humanitarian sector's processes in the prevention of sexual misconduct. 

The  peak body, Australian Council for International Development, announced the independent review today. Highly specialised staff with expertise in sexual assault, child protection and gender-based violence from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine will conduct the review 

World Vision Australia Chief Executive Officer Claire Rogers said she had great confidence the review and its recommendations would strengthen  the sector's safeguards against inappropriate or criminal sexual misconduct. 

"We welcome any efforts to shine a light on an areas we need to improve our approach - both in WV and the sector - to protect against misconduct especially where it impacts on vulnerable children and communities in the field and a safe and equitable working environment," Ms Rogers said. 

World Vision Australia has extensive policies and protocols in place to safeguard children and communities against sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as mechanisms that allow communities, beneficiaries and staff to report potential cases of abuse to the organisation. 

"We know women and children are especially vulnerable to abuse after a disaster strikes. There is no place in any country for the abuse of anyone." 

Ms Rogers said World Vision Australia had already been working closely with the sector on this issue and was committed to supporting the independent review. 

An interim report is expected to be published in July, followed by a final report and recommendations in October. 

Media inquiries, contact World Vision Australia senior media officer Ruth Lamperd:  0417 765 947 or ruth.lamperd@worldvision.com.au